MCA Youth praises Muhyiddin's last act, hopes no more total lockdown

 

Singing praise of departing Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, MCA Youth Federal Territories vice-chairperson Chris Daniel Wong said he hopes the new incoming government will not reverse Muhyiddin's decision to reopen 11 economic sectors under Phase 1 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).

In a statement this morning, Wong (above) defended Muhyiddin’s decision despite the debate over whether the move was premature, saying it is a much-needed relief to businesses affected by the lockdown.

“This will give a new lease of life to traders, especially to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that were greatly affected by the prolonged lockdown and suffered huge losses due to the closure of the economic sector since June 2021,” he said.

While adding that strict compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be observed at all times, Wong pointed out that the reopening of the sectors would reestablish the value chain in the retail sector.

“For example, with the increase of car sales we will see the increase of component-making, thus increasing the value chains, assembly, logistics and resale, giving a further positive impact on the automotive industry,” he said.

Wong hopes the new incoming government will not reverse the decision, arguing that even though small sporadic clusters may emerge, a blanket lockdown would have disastrous ramifications.

“But whatever may come, it is hoped that there will not be another total lockdown again.

“This is especially important for the economic sectors in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, which represent 40 percent of the country's GDP,” he added.

On Sunday, Muhyiddin, who is now caretaker prime minister, announced that 11 types of business activities in areas under Phase 1 of the National Recovery Plan would be allowed to resume operations, yesterday with two key conditions.

To qualify, the state or territory must have half its adult population fully vaccinated and the relaxed rules only apply to customers who are fully vaccinated.

This move on Sunday was the final act in office for Muhyiddin, who resigned alongside his entire cabinet yesterday. - Mkini